The Artist

A perfectionist learning to let go

I didn't start with magnolias. I started with little street scenes, inspired by a woman I watched online who painted for ten minutes every day. I live in Elkins, West Virginia — a historic town full of beautiful old buildings — and I could relate to a small street scene.

"I know so very little that I truly can't visualize my destination. And I think that might be the whole point."

The hardest part — still today — is not controlling everything. The way water and paint mix is somewhat unpredictable, and that uncontrollable quality is something I wrestle with every time I sit down. I am a perfectionist. I have owned my businesses for 27 years — but I've been designing flowers since I was 13 years old. I walked into a flower shop after middle school every single day because I loved it. 44 years later, I still do. I am used to controlling outcomes.

Would I say painting has clicked yet? Honestly, not completely. It is still very much a journey. And yet — I think about going up to my little painting room for most of the day. It is my peace. I love it as much as I have loved any expressive creative thing I have ever done.

— Tammy, Elkins WV

Watch Me Paint

Follow the journey on TikTok

Faceless painting videos, watercolor experiments, and the occasional happy accident. Come watch what happens when a florist picks up a brush.

@t_dolly

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Everything I actually paint with — from my very first set to the supplies I reach for today — is linked in the Watercolor Studio on the main shop.

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